UT HB0381

H.B. 381 - Electric Mobility Device Amendments

• Individuals under 21 years old must wear a helmet when operating motorcycles, electric assisted bicycles, motor assisted scooters, or high power electric devices on highways

• Creates a new "high power electric device" category for electric vehicles capable of exceeding 20 mph on motor power alone, including modified e-bikes; operators under 16 are prohibited from operating these on highways

• Establishes a personal electric vehicle safety education program administered by the Department of Public Safety; individuals ages 8-15 must complete the program or be supervised by an adult to operate e-bikes or motor assisted scooters on highways

• Allows peace officers to hold (confiscate) a minor's electric assisted bicycle or personal electric vehicle when observing traffic violations and release it only to a parent or guardian

• Prohibits tampering with or modifying electric assisted bicycles beyond manufacturer settings to change speed or power output; requires commercial sellers to provide disclosures that high power electric devices are not e-bikes and are subject to motor vehicle laws